The Job of Tellers – What It Is, Examples, Education & Progression
Tellers play a vital role in the banking industry by handling cash, checks, and other financial services while being the first point of contact for customers when they enter a bank. There are various types of teller jobs, including bank tellers, currency exchange tellers, credit union tellers, and cashiers. To become a teller, one must have a high school diploma or equivalent education, and some banks require post-secondary education or related work experience. Specialized training programs provide tellers with opportunities to advance within their organization through increased responsibilities, supervisory roles, and managerial positions. To be a successful teller, you need to possess strong customer service skills, honesty, and attention to detail.
Examples of Teller Jobs
- Bank Tellers: Bank tellers work in banks, handle customer transactions, and are typically responsible for maintaining and organizing accounts.
- Currency Exchange Tellers: Currency exchange tellers help customers exchange their currencies from one form to another, like US dollars to Euros.
- Credit Union Tellers: Credit union tellers work at credit unions and handle customer transactions and queries.
- Cashiers: Cashiers work at retail stores, supermarkets, and other retail outlets, handling customer transactions and payments for products and services.
Education and Training
To become a teller, one must have a high school diploma or equivalent education. Some banks also require post-secondary education or related work experience. In addition to education, training is also necessary for all tellers before they start working.
Progression in the Field
Specialized training programs provide tellers with opportunities to advance within their organization through increased responsibilities, supervisory roles, and managerial positions.
Getting into the Field
If you’re new to the field, you can start by looking for available entry-level teller positions within your local area. You can also apply directly to a bank or credit union to inquire about job opportunities. Becoming a cashier at a retail outlet can also provide you with invaluable experience.
Salary Information
| Occupation | Location | Unionized | Job Level | Salary – Average | Salary – Minimum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tellers | US National Average | Nonunion | All levels | $36,753.60 | $32,905.60 |
Teller salaries vary based on job level, unionization, experience, and location. The average annual salary for tellers in the US is $36,753.60.
Conclusion
Tellers play a crucial role in the banking industry by acting as customer service representatives and handling various financial transactions. With the right education, training, and experience, tellers can progress from entry-level positions to higher-ranking positions within a bank or credit union.
